Photos by Brittany Miller Photography
Known as the adventure capital of Utah, Moab is a popular elopement location. Offering breath taking vistas and red rock backdrops, it’s the perfect place to say your ‘I do’s.’ The desert locale is also home to five incredible National Parks like Arches and Zion—ideal locations for outdoorsy couples. But before you pack up and head into the desert, we’ve gathering the ultimate guide on eloping in Moab.
PICK THE RIGHT SEASON
Southern Utah is known for scorching summer temperatures, and no bride wants to sweat through her gown. Plan your elopement in the early spring or late fall for the best photos and experience. Keep in mind that from April to May is the high season for tourists, so you’re likely to have some out-of-town bystanders at your wedding if you choose to elope in a National Park.
APPLY FOR A MARRIAGE LICENSE
Before you say your vows in the backcountry of Moab, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license. Both parties must apply for the license at the County Clerk’s Office located in Grand County. After your elopement, your officiate must sign, date and return the license within 30 days to the Grand County Clerk.
PICK A LOCATION
Spanning five unique national parks and an endless array of remote locations, Moab offers something for every kind of couple. Keep in mind that most outdoor locations will require a permit and enforce restrictions on ceremony size and wedding décor. For an open-air ceremony, popular venues include Arches National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park. Arches allow up to 25 people depending on which viewpoint you choose, and the permit required is $185. A permit to marry in Dead Horse Point park is $60, although the price varies depending on the size of your guest list. As an added plus, Dead Horse Point is also dog friendly!
Moab also boasts plenty of less rural venues, like Castle Valley Inn Bed and Breakfast, Whispering Oaks Ranch and Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa.
LEAVE NO TRACE
The cardinal rule of eloping in Moab is to leave the land just as you found it. Preservation laws are strict in Southern Utah, and trashing the venue will land you with hefty fines. Leave No Trace principles revolve around one simple phrase: “Pack it in, pack it out.” Whatever you bring that isn’t natural to the area should be taken with you, including biodegradable flowers. It’s also best to refrain from bringing in structures and furniture that can harm the land. Instead, opt for boho-chic rugs and collapsable arches that are easy to break down.
Find more information about outdoor locations in Utah here!
